The urgency of addressing climate change has resulted in the implementation of proactive climate policies across multiple sectors. Including the business sector, where regulations aim on the energy efficiency and sustainability within companies’ facilities. In the Netherlands, recent regulations have imposed significant energy efficiency requirements on office-based companies, particularly concerning the energy efficiency and sustainability of office buildings. This research investigates the impact of Dutch climate policies on companies within the business sector, focusing on how these companies adapt their office buildings and sustainability strategies to comply with the new energy efficiency regulations. Through a combination of semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, this research explores the practical measures companies are taking to meet energy efficiency standards, the challenges they face in implementing these measures, and the role of internal corporate motivation in driving sustainability initiatives.

Three main regulations are included and investigated in this study: the minimum energy label C for office buildings, the energy savings obligation (including the recognised measures list), and the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) audit obligation. The study provides detailed insights into how involved companies navigate the technical and organisational complexities of complying with these policies, including negotiating with landlords for rented office spaces and balancing compliance costs with financial viability. Additionally, this research highlights the extent to which companies’ sustainability practices are driven by regulatory compliance or by a deeper commitment to social corporate responsibility in sustainability. Long term strategies and culture will be included in this research to create a more complete view of companies’ stance and strategies.
By presenting a nuanced analysis of the effects of Dutch climate policy on the business sector, this research contributes to the broader understanding of how companies are responding to the evolving sustainability landscape and energy efficiency goals in the business sector. The findings inform both policymakers and companies on effective strategies for enhancing energy efficiency in office buildings while addressing the practical and organisational barriers to implementation.